Calgary Free-mo: Standards And Guidelines

Definitions

Module:

Any layout component (or group of "sections") meant to be operated as a single unit in a fixed configuration. A module can have any number of sections. Both ends of a module comply with the Free-mo physical and electrical standards defined within this document.

Section:

A part of a larger module, complete with bench work, track, scenery, etc. Except where otherwise noted, standards for module end interfaces do not apply to inter-section interfaces, as these are considered to be internal to the module.

Endplate:

The standardized end surface of a module that joins with an adjacent module in a Free-mo layout. The physical aspects of the endplate are defined in the Frame Work description, below.

Fitter Rails:

The 2" long removable rails and joiners used to bridge the joints between adjacent modules or sections. Must be Code 83, and highly preferred to be weathered.

Track (Power) Bus:

The continuous two wire bus feeding power and DCC commands to the track.

Accessory (Power) Bus:

The continuous two wire bus powering electrical accessories such as turnout motors, structure lighting, animation, etc. We typically power the Accessory bus with the output from the Command station booster, thus, it's 16V AC, with a DCC signal on it. In essence, it's a separate track bus, though not for running trains on.

Loconet (DCC) Bus:

The continuous six-wire bus carrying DCC information among the Digitrax system components such as throttles, boosters, radio receivers, etc.

Pigtail:

Common name of any of the connector/wire assemblies used to connect the electrical busses together between modules.